Polonnaruwa rose to prominence when it was declared the capital of Sri Lanka after the fall of the Kingdom of Anuradhapura. King Vijayabahu I chose Polonnaruwa as his capital after successfully defeating the Chola invaders. The city flourished under the reign of several influential kings, contributing to the steady growth and stabilization of the country.

The Golden Age of Polonnaruwa began with the ascent of King Parakramabahu I to the throne. His ambitious vision to use every drop of water that fell from the sky led to the creation of extraordinary irrigation systems that continue to amaze people to this day. In the challenging dry zone, the king made the impossible possible, particularly with the construction of the vast ‘Parakrama Samudra’ (Sea of Parakrama), a reservoir that still shines as a beacon of hope in the heart of Polonnaruwa.

During Polonnaruwa’s era, numerous architectural marvels were constructed. Visitors should explore these majestic attractions, including the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include the Polonnaruwa Vatadage, Gal Vihara, Nissanka Latha Mandapaya, Rankoth Vehera, and Hatadage, which can be explored on foot or by cycle.

A visit to the Polonnaruwa Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history and the legacies of its great kings. The museum showcases the remarkable past of this former capital. Additionally, large families of toque macaques (monkeys) thrive among the ancient ruins, delighting visitors as much as the historic monuments themselves.